While breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer for females and prostate cancer the most common diagnosis for men, lung cancer killed more Australians in 2016.

Half of Australians have a chronic condition such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, which are typically long lasting and require ongoing management, according to the Australia's Health 2018 report.

Nearly half (45 per cent) of Australians aged between 16-85 years will experience a mental illness, most commonly anxiety, substance use disorders and mood disorders.

Men who have served in the ADF are nearly twice as likely to experience affective disorders like depression (9.4 per cent) compared to men who have not served (5.7 per cent).

Men who served in the ADF are twice as likely to suffer affective disorders. Picture: Supplied ()

Those who identify as homosexual or bisexual are more likely to experience an anxiety disorder (32 per cent) than heterosexuals (14 per cent).

The report also found Australian teenagers are waiting longer until they first try alcohol, smoke a full cigarette and use illicit drugs, with cannabis, ecstasy and cocaine use falling.